Gaming apparatus and method of play

ABSTRACT

A gaming apparatus is disclosed comprising:a. a top that includes an axially aligned gripping member extending from the upper surface of the body of the top and dimensioned to be held between the thumb and forefinger of a player, the body terminating in a contact point that supports the spinning top, the portion of the body above the contact point in an embodiment being generally conical and having a circular cross-section that tapers outwardly at least a predetermined distance along the axis of the top;b. a planar inclined receiving surface having an upper or elevated end onto which the player releases the spinning top at the commencement of play;c. a generally horizontal scoring zone that is joined to, and is contiguous with the lower end of the inclined receiving surface, the surface of the scoring zone being provided with a plurality of spaced-apart generally circular recessed openings, the openings being of the same or of different diameters that correspond to cross-sectional diameters taken along the axis of the body of the top above the contact point; andd. a continuous enclosing frame that surrounds the inclined receiving surface and the horizontal scoring zone that is configured and dimensioned to retain the spinning top in play and prevent it from leaving the inclined surface and the scoring zone.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This disclosure relates to a gaming apparatus having a stationary play surface configured for play in which a spinning top is manually activated by one or a succession of players to achieve a score determined randomly by the position of the top when it comes to rest.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

Various configurations of manually activated spinning tops have been known for use in game play and general amusement by individuals and in competitions. The top is configured with an axial projection that is gripped between the user's thumb and forefinger and rapidly twisted to set the top to spinning.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

The gaming apparatus of the present disclosure includes:

a. a top that includes an axially aligned gripping member extending from the upper surface of the body of the top and dimensioned to be held between the thumb and forefinger of a player, the body terminating in a contact point that supports the spinning top, the portion of the body above the contact point in an embodiment being generally conical and having a circular cross-section that tapers outwardly at least a predetermined distance along the axis of the top;

b. a planar inclined receiving surface having an upper or elevated end onto which the player releases the spinning top at the commencement of play;

c. a generally horizontal scoring zone that is joined to, and is contiguous with the lower end of the inclined receiving surface, the surface of the scoring zone being provided with a plurality of spaced-apart generally circular recessed openings, the openings being of the same diameter or, alternatively, of at least two different diameters that correspond to cross-sectional diameters taken along the axis of the body of the top above the contact point; and

d. a continuous enclosing frame the surrounds the inclined receiving surface and the horizontal scoring zone that is configured and dimensioned to retain the spinning top in play and prevent it from leaving the inclined surface and the scoring zone.

It will be understood from the above, that the circular openings in the scoring zone are dimensioned and configured to receive and retain the spinning top when the contact point passes from the surface of the scoring zone into one of the recessed openings, and that the top will come to rest with the tapered surface of the body supported by the upper edge of the opening.

In a preferred embodiment, the openings in the scoring zone are randomly assigned different scoring values that are marked, e.g., by printing, on the surface of the scoring zone. In an embodiment, the openings are of the same diameter. In an alternative embodiment, the scoring zone is provided with at least two different diameter openings that are assigned different scoring values, e.g., the smaller diameter openings can be assigned a higher scoring value. For example, in an embodiment, the scoring zone has a total of 18 openings laid out in two rows (A, B) each row having nine openings, and three different diameter openings. The scores can also be assigned to the relative frequency, based on the location of the respective openings in the scoring zone, that the top will come to rest in that opening. In play with a representative prototype apparatus that is described in more detail below, it has been found that the top is more likely to come to rest in a centrally positioned opening adjacent the junction of the inclined receiving surface and the scoring zone than in the other openings.

It will be understood that the overall dimensions of the gaming apparatus can be varied, and that a smaller unit will have a proportionally smaller scoring surface and correspondingly fewer openings for receiving the top. The gaming apparatus can also be produced to a larger scale for use in an amusement arcade or other more permanent non-portable installations in a facility for use by its patrons.

The gaming apparatus of the present disclosure also advantageously includes an integral storage compartment for retaining one or more tops during transport or when the game is not in use. The region below the upper end of the inclined receiving surface and bordered by the lower walls of the enclosing frame is well-suited for this purpose. In an embodiment, the rear of the inclined receiving surface is provided with one or more strips of hook-and-loop fastening material. A corresponding engagement strip or strips are attached to a containment adapted to receive one or more tops. The containment can be a flexible pouch, e.g., with a draw string to which the hook-and-loop engagement strips are attached. In an alternative embodiment, the frame is fitted with a movable wall to define and enclose the interior storage region. The movable wall is preferably pivotally mounted, e.g., by one or more hinges to assure that it does not become separated from the apparatus. Thus, the enclosed region can accommodate a plurality of the tops each of which can be distinguished by variations in color, design and/or configuration for personalization and use by individual players who regularly compete. The movable wall can advantageously removably be retained in position by hook-and-loop fastener material.

Tops can be made entirely of wood, or of molded plastic, or a combination of wood and/or plastic and fitted with a contact point of metal or a different plastic. Tops can be sold as supplemental accessories based on differences in weight, appearance and performance characteristics to further personalize the play.

The apparatus is preferably provided with an integral handle to facilitate its portability. All or parts of the apparatus can be fabricated from the same or contrasting species of wood, which can be painted or finished with natural stain to enhance their aesthetic appearance. The scoring values, trademarks, decorative designs and logos can be applied by silkscreening, stamping and other methods well known in the art.

The apparatus can also be produced in part or entirely of plastic, either as an integral unit, or by the assembly of the various members described above. The secure assembly of individual molded parts can be accomplished using polymer solvents, ultrasonic heating and other methods well known in the polymer arts. The movable wall for the storage area can advantageously be provided by a living hinge integrally formed at the time the frame and wall are produced by molding of the plastic parts, e.g., by injection molding.

Method of Play

The game can be played by one or more individuals with a record kept of the accumulated points scored. A separate manually operated scoring device for one or multiple players can be sold with the original apparatus or as an after-market accessory. A variety of such scoring devices are commercially available and form no part of the present disclosure.

Play is initiated when a player spins and releases the rapidly spinning top in a designated section at the upper elevated end of the inclined receiving surface, which can, in an embodiment be provided with a “Starting Line” or other designation. The spinning top moves down the inclined surface under the influence of gravity and passes onto the scoring zone. Surprisingly, the top typically assumes an erratic, unpredictable course of movement on the surface of the scoring zone, usually closely skirting several of the adjacent openings before finally entering one of the openings and coming to rest. The score associated with the opening is tallied, and the same or another player takes the next turn. Competitive play can continue until a predetermined score is achieved by one of the players, or until a predetermined number of turns have been completed by each player.

The enclosing frame also provides interest when the top enters the scoring zone by repelling the spinning top upon contact in an unexpected trajectory. It is the unpredictable and often surprising changes in direction of the spinning top that add to the interest in the play, even among adult players.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The gaming apparatus of the present disclosure and the method of play will be described in further detail below and with reference to the attached drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a front, top and right side perspective view of a dimensioned illustration of a representative arrangement of the assembly showing a top positioned above the playing surface prior to initiating play;

FIG. 2 is a rear, top and left side perspective view of an embodiment of the apparatus illustrating a suitable arrangement of an integrally hinged storage compartment with two tops positioned above a pair of recesses in preparation for storage or transportation;

FIG. 2A is an exploded view similar to FIG. 2 illustrating alternative assembly features;

FIG. 3 is a view similar to FIG. 2 in which the door of the storage compartment is closed and secured in the carrying position;

FIG. 4 is a view similar to FIG. 2 , illustrating a fabric storage bag removed from a pair of hook-and-loop fastener strips employed to retain the bag in position in the storage compartment; and

FIG. 5 is a view similar to FIG. 2 , illustrating an embodiment of a door panel fitted with hook-and-loop fastener strips prior to placement to enclose the storage compartment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE GAMING APPARATUS

Referring to FIG. 1 , the gaming apparatus (1) comprises:

a. an inclined planar receiving surface (10) shown with an optional “starting line” (12) to define a region at the upper elevated end of the receiving surface in which the player is to release the spinning top to initiate play;

b. a horizontal scoring zone (20) that is provided with a plurality of openings (22, 24, 26) of predetermined differing diameters adapted to receive, slow and retain the top at rest. As shown, each opening is marked with a score value (28), which can be arbitrary, or assigned based on the diameter and/or position in the scoring zone, and the predetermined relative frequency with which the top will come to rest n each opening; and

c. a continuous enclosing frame (30) formed by a pair of opposing side members (32), an upper member (34) that defines the upper elevated end of the receiving surface (10) and a lower member (36) that defines the outside edge of the scoring zone (20). The height of the frame is sufficient to maintain the spinning top on the playing surfaces and to effect the directional movement of the top when its tapered body contacts the upper edge or corner (38) of a frame member. The frame (30) is advantageously provided with a carrying handle (36) at the lower end. By way of example only, and not as limitations, the following dimensions for the construction of the gaming apparatus of the present disclosure have been found to be suitable and provide entertaining play:

-   -   i. exterior of frame— 11.5″×11.5″;     -   ii. height of frame 1.75″ at upper end and 1.0″ at lower end;     -   iii. inclination of receiving surface— 10°;     -   iv. holes in scoring zone— 18 total, 9 holes ¾″ diameter and 9         holes ⅞″ diameter; and     -   v. frame width— ⅜″.         It will be understood that these dimensions are exemplary and         are not intended as limiting, and that the apparatus can be         scaled up or made smaller while advantageously using these         relative dimensions as a guide.

Referring now to the rear perspective view of FIG. 2 , the storage compartment (70) is dimensioned and configured to receive a pair of tops (40), each of which is securely received in an opening (72) provided in the interior wall (74) of upper frame member (34). A closure (80) is dimensioned and configured to maintain the stowed tops (40) in position during transport and storage of the gaming apparatus. The closure (80) is preferably mounted for rotation using one or more hinges (82), or for molded plastic construction an integrally formed so-called “living hinge” with the frame. As illustrated, the closure (80) is secured with a hook-and-eye closure system (84 a, 84 b). Alternatively, the closure (80) can be held in the closed position using one or more magnetic closures, spring-loaded ball locks mounted in the frame and closure, or by snap-fit securements where the gaming apparatus is produced by plastic molding.

Referring now to the rear perspective exploded view of FIG. 2A, the upper frame member (34) is provided with four (4) recessed openings for storing tops (not shown). The hinge assembly (90) and threaded retaining cap (93) which passes through spaced open rings (97) formed in receiving member (96) that is permanently secured to frame member (34); hinge element (94) having a hinge pin receiving opening (95) is secured to the interior of the closure (80) and installed between the spaced open rings (97), after which threaded hinge pin is inserted and secured in place by retaining cap (93).

A pair of pivotally-mounted frictional compartment locks (102) are mounted on the inside surfaces of opposing frame members (32) above the upper edge of the closure (80) in the closed position, and by rotating them downwardly to contact the outer surface of the closure (80) to retain it in the closed position.

Also shown in FIG. 2A, the handle (37) has spaced-apart openings to receive the free ends of a U-shaped suspension loop (37 a) that can be used to suspend the apparatus vertically from a hook during storage.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 2 in which the closure (80) is shown in the closed position within the frame (30).

Referring now to the rear view of the apparatus (1) in FIG. 4 , there is illustratively shown a fabric storage bag (100) to which a pair of hook-and-loop fastener strips (102 a) are secured, as by stitching and/or adhesive, the bag having been removed from corresponding fastener strips (102 b) secured to the rear surface of the inclined receiving surface (10) which forms an interior wall of storage compartment (70). The storage bag (100) can be provided with a drawstring (104) as shown, closure snaps, or other well-known means (not shown) to retain one or more tops in its interior during travel and storage.

With reference to FIG. 5 , the storage compartment (70) of the gaming apparatus (1) is shown from which closure panel (110) has been removed. The interior surface (112) of the panel (110) as shown is provided with an opening (114) dimensioned and configured to permit a user to insert one or more fingers to manually remove the panel from its position closing the storage compartment where one or more tops can be placed during transportation and storage of the gaming apparatus. The interior of the panel (110) is provided with two hook-and-loop fastener strips (116 a) that are positioned to engage corresponding strips (116 b) secured to an interior surface (118) of the storage compartment.

As will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, various modifications and improvements can be adopted based on the above disclosure without departing from the invention, the scope of which will be determined with reference to the claims of the eventual patent. 

1. A gaming apparatus comprising: a. a top that includes an axially aligned gripping member extending from the upper surface of the body of the top and dimensioned to be held between the thumb and forefinger of a player, the body terminating in a contact point that supports the spinning top, the portion of the body above the contact point in an embodiment being generally conical and having a circular cross-section that tapers outwardly at least a predetermined distance along the axis of the top; b. a planar inclined receiving surface having an upper or elevated end onto which the player releases the spinning top at the commencement of play; c. a generally horizontal scoring zone that is joined to, and is contiguous with the lower end of the inclined receiving surface, the surface of the scoring zone being provided with a plurality of spaced-apart generally circular recessed receiving openings, the openings being of the same or different diameters that correspond to cross-sectional diameters taken along the axis of the body of the top above the contact point; and d. a continuous enclosing frame the surrounds the inclined receiving surface and the horizontal scoring zone that is configured and dimensioned to retain the spinning top in play and prevent it from leaving the inclined surface and the scoring zone.
 2. The gaming apparatus of claim 1 in which scoring value indicia are provided adjacent the respective circular openings.
 3. The gaming apparatus of claim 1 in which the circular openings are of at least two different diameters.
 4. The gaming apparatus of claim 1 that includes an enclosure mounted to a portion of the frame member and dimensioned and configured to define a storage compartment below the underside of the planar inclined receiving surface adapted to receive one or more tops during transportation and storage.
 5. The gaming apparatus of claim 1 in which the upper end of the receiving surface includes indicia to demark a portion of the surface onto which the spinning top is to be released to initiate play.
 6. The gaming apparatus of claim 1, the principal structural elements of which are fabricated of wood. 